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Alberta puts two immigration programs on hold

Alberta recently announced that in response to current job market conditions, it is no longer accepting applications for two immigration programs.

The Alberta Immigrant Nominee Program (AINP) will not accept new applications in the Family Stream and the U.S. Visa Holder Category. This change is temporary until further notice.

“Our focus needs to be on jobs for Albertans and Canadians first,” said Thomas Lukaszuk, Minister of Employment and Immigration in making the announcement. “We will continue to process applications for people who have the skills our growing economy needs.”

The Alberta Immigrant Nominee Program was first introduced to help Alberta build a strong workforce of skilled immigrants. In 2008 the Family Stream and the U.S. Visa Holder Category were added. Both these programs were very successful and have resulted in a large number of applications.

The federal government limits the number of people Alberta can nominate for permanent residence. In 2010 Alberta is allowed to nominate 5,000 people. With limited numbers, Alberta's focus will be on nominating people who currently work in permanent jobs and those who have job offers in occupations that are in demand in Alberta.

Alberta will continue to accept immigration applications in the following areas: